Tl;Dr: almost everything has worked well.
There’s a lot to a trip like this: planning, logistics, fitness, grit and gear. Let’s be honest: a lot of what drives adventures like this is shopping (for gear).
I’m happy to say all has worked well, except left-brake, and even that is doing ok.
Tires: Everybody goes with Vittoria Mezcals for Tour Divide, I wanted something wider for the front. I ended up with a 2.8 Maxxis Rekon + & a 2.35 Schwalbe Thunder Bert on the rear. This was a bit risky as these are lighter weight tires but they worked great
Shimano Power Saddle – I was worried this would break since it was carbon. No issues at all. This is a maybe, since I obviously had issues with the butt saddle interface, but I’ve been riding this saddle for a long time so I don’t think it was the saddle.
Cannondale Save Seatpost – this is supposed to be a fairly compliant seatpost. Another carbon thing that I was worried about. Zero issues.
1×12 Frankenstein drivetrain & UFO drip wax. Worked great, except having to lube every day.
Carbon Jones Bars – I really came to enjoy the longer extension of these. Riding with my hands on the ends took some the edge off of the rough stuff
Sinewave Beacon II. I really love the 3-way switch on the light, so easy to use. Nice bright beam.
MLD stuff sack: no issues, nice & light. Took a bit to figure out to lock the clip through the daisy chain, but that seems like a simple education thing.
Dr. Jones bar bag: great to have a nice big bag for snacks up front. The ‘wallet’ was amazing
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